Case Study

I was originally hired by TM (not their real name) a Scottsdale Airpark based vendor-compliance software development company to set up internal email and verify their backups were working. After two days on the site I noticed the company's software developers were spending approximately half their day reading newspapers, periodicals and doing crossword puzzles. My first impression was the incredible amount of time and money being wasted by the company paying these developers to read.

Curiosity got the best of me and before I said anything to my client I took the lead developer to lunch so I could ask him questions in private. To my surprise he was more frustrated than I was with the "free time". He said that during those "breaks" they were waiting for the the code to compile before they could start testing and make changes. It turned out their workstations were so slow and so light on RAM that it was taking 30 to 60 minutes to recompile the code each time they made changes. These delays had placed TM in a position of potential breach of contract and TM was on the verge of losing several major clients.

I did a quick Technology Assessment Profile (TAP) and discussed my initial review with the lead developer to verify my conclusions. That night I designed a new software development network including a new server and six new workstations. I did a cost benefit analysis and a return on investment that demonstrated TM would see their new network investment break-even in eight weeks.

Summary and Lessons Learned

As it turned out not only did TM see a break-even in seven weeks (I missed it by one week in their favor) the dramatic increase in software development production allowed the company to retain and complete several large contracts. The comptroller indicated the network infrastructure investment saved the company over $1.3 million in lost productivity or contract cancellations. Not to mention the cost savings from lawsuits that were not filed due to potential breach of contracts.

At GBIT we strive to maintain a proactive position with respect to our clients' networks, thereby reducing the potential for problems to arise. In the above situation I was hired for internal email and backup verification and security, by being proactive and curious I discovered a much more serious need for the company.

We are certified in System and Network Security and Microsoft Operating Systems, with over 15 years of experience in network design, installations and support. A well designed and supported IT solution will enhance business productivity throughout your organization.

Please email GBIT or call us at 602-561-7805 to discuss how a Part-Time solution for your Full-Time IT needs might be the correct fit for your company.

I believe I can be an asset and support your IT network, if not, at least I can offer you access to Spiceworks. Spiceworks will not replace IT knowledge and experience however it will dramatically assist with your IT Management for Free.

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